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Looking for karate classes in Chicago? Our directory tracks the dojos worth training at — from beginner-friendly and kids' classes to adult programs, kata, and kumite. Use the map and rankings below to find your dojo, compare what each one offers, and grab a free trial before you commit.
4.9 ★★★★★ 92 reviews
🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site
4.7 ★★★★★ 69 reviews
4.6 ★★★★★ 48 reviews
Established, local studio offering a range of karate & fitness programs for all ages & skill levels.
4.8 ★★★★★ 45 reviews
🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site
5 ★★★★★ 40 reviews
🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site
5 ★★★★★ 35 reviews
The smartest way to start: these dojos offer a free trial class or a low-cost intro deal, so you can watch a class and meet the sensei before you commit: Fonseca Martial Arts - Roscoe Village, Senshi Karate Of Chicago, Imazaki Dojo, Thousand Waves Martial Arts & Self-Defense Center, NFP, Kyokushin Karate Club “Kanku”, Hu Shin Kai Karate. Try a couple before choosing. Check each dojo's schedule for current offers, and see the full list on our free trial page.
New to karate? These dojos flag beginner-welcoming classes: Karate Academy, Imazaki Dojo, Thousand Waves Martial Arts & Self-Defense Center, NFP, Hu Shin Kai Karate, Enso Karate, Japan Karate Association of Chicago Sugiyama Dojo. You do not need to be fit, flexible, or experienced to start — read what to expect when you begin, or browse every beginner-friendly dojo in the directory.
Looking for classes for your child? These Chicago dojos flag kids' or youth programs: Fonseca Martial Arts - Roscoe Village, Karate Academy, TAC Karate & Fitness, Senshi Karate Of Chicago, Imazaki Dojo, Thousand Waves Martial Arts & Self-Defense Center, NFP. See our kids' age guide for what age to start and how dojos keep it safe, or browse all kids karate.
Karate dojos in Chicago often teach other martial arts under the same roof, so you can add taekwondo, kickboxing, or a ground-fighting art on one membership. See how the striking arts compare in our karate vs taekwondo guide, or browse the other martial arts each dojo offers and the karate class types available.
Definitely recommend ., excellent place to learn KARATE my son has been going there for 5 years now; he has become more mature and more responsible he is almost black belt now. Sensei Nollys and Senpai Jose are great with the kids, they keep the clases fun yet serious when it’s time to get to work.
I can not fully express how much I love Karate Academy. My son has autism and ADHD. He has issues with concentration, staying on task and listening. It’s almost been 3 months and he is already showing improvement. I have also noticed that he is stronger and more confident.
Signed my son up for karate. He had being taking Taekwondo at another place and I was not happy with the progress. TAC is where he should have been in the first place. I like the discipline and structure of the class and how the instructors take the time to show him how to kick/punch.
